Order of chicks leaving the coop

[Mixchicks]

We have eight 8 week old chicks doing wonderfully in their new coop. Over the last two weeks living in their coop we have noticed that they always emerge from the coop in the morning in the same order - or at least very close to the same order. It appears to reflect their social hierarchy. Has anyone else noticed this? Wondering if it’s an early indicator of dominance.

 

[igorsMistress]

Yes I've noticed that as well although things change as they grow. If I'm not out at first light then the hens and younger birds come pouring out with rooster in the middle of the mess. If I'm out early the rooster comes out first.

 

[Grey Gables]

I experienced this also. It's absolutely related to the pecking order! Although when my girls were little, my Easter Egger was queen. Now that everyone is full grown, the Australorp has become top dog!

 

[rosemarythyme]

Probably gets affected by age of birds too. My head hen used to lead the charge out the door, but now that she's older, she's less inclined to be rushing out the door in the morning. The other hens the same age are the same, they're usually the last ones out now and often don't even leave the roost until the pop door is fully open.